Be Aware!

 Be Aware!

• Mushrooms are extremely porous and soak up water like a sponge. Because they are comprised of mostly water, never soak fresh mushrooms.
• Be aware that salt releases the water in mushrooms, so judge the salt usage accordingly for your particular recipe.
• There is no need to peel mushrooms. In fact, peeling mushrooms nullifies most of their flavor. Simply trim off any damaged spots and tough or dirty stems.

Since commercially-available mushrooms are grown in a sterile medium, to clean fresh mushrooms it is best to brush them with a little cold water and a soft vegetable brush. Scraping with a downward movement,  trim the stems with a paring knife. Pick off any dirt unless they are very dirty. If washing the mushrooms is required, do so by plunging them in water very briefly. Then reserve in a colander to let strain any excess moisture and store flat on a tray in refrigerator.